MP‐Industrialist Naveen Jindal Met Bill Gates In Bangalore To Discuss Philanthropy

June 2: Naveen Jindal, Member of Parliament (Kurukshetra) met Microsoft founder Bill Gates in Bangalore and held talks about philanthropy and its impact on society, along with some of India's top businessmen.

Mr Gates shared his thoughts on philanthropy with industry stalwarts like JSPL Chairman and Managing Director, Naveen Jindal, Wipro Chairman Azim Premji, Infosys Chairman Emeritus Narayana Murthy, Tata Group Chairman Ratan Tata and Biocon Chairman and Managing Director Kiran Mazumdar Shaw among others.

The meet tried to evolve a framework to set up a foundation in India under which many Indian companies will work together for the betterment of the humanity and society.

Mr Jindal said, “We can all do a lot more for the cause that we are passionate about. It was a good session on philanthropy.’’

Forty‐five of India's richest were engaged for four hours in an intense discussion with Bill Gates, Azim Premji and Ratan Tata not only on philanthropy but also on a critical question: "How do you figure how much you and the next generation need before deciding to give away your wealth to charitable causes".

Gates, who has pledged $26 billion to the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, told the audience to "keep it for the need", and give the rest away.

The co‐hosts of the event, Azim Premji and Ratan Tata emphasized the need for partnering and teaming up to help improve the quality of education, water, healthcare and sanitation. The group expressed belief that philanthropy and social service were integral to the development of any society.

The meeting was focused on sharing ideas on philanthropy and not about any pledges. It discussed social work in areas like education, health, water and agriculture. Noting that India has its own significant tradition of philanthropy and social service, the group reaffirmed the view that there was vibrant thinking and action on philanthropy in the country.